Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) Kano have foiled a bandits’ attack and recovered 97 cattle and 50 sheep during an operation along the Kano-Katsina border.
The operation, conducted on July 15, 2026, followed credible intelligence that armed bandits were moving rustled livestock through the Yankamaye and Rimaye axis.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Major Babatunde Zubairu, troops deployed at Forward Operating Bases (FOBs), reinforced by personnel from a Response Area, swiftly positioned themselves at identified crossing points used by the bandits.
He said the troops intercepted the fleeing criminals, leading to a gun battle that forced the bandits to abandon the stolen livestock and flee towards Katsina State.
“During the ensuing exchange of gunfire, troops overwhelmed the bandits, forcing them to abandon the rustled livestock and flee in total disarray towards Katsina State,” the statement said.
The Army disclosed that two suspected terrorists were captured during the operation, while one motorcycle was also recovered.
It added that the recovered livestock, comprising 97 cattle and 50 sheep, had been returned to their rightful owners.
However, the operation recorded a casualty as a local vigilante, Mallam Yusuf Adamu, 47, of Yanchibi Village, was killed after being caught in the crossfire.
The Nigerian Army extended its condolences to the deceased’s family and the Yanchibi community over the incident.
Meanwhile, troops have continued clearance operations in the area in pursuit of the fleeing bandits.
Commending the troops, the Commander, 3 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Saka Jimoh, praised their professionalism, alertness and fighting spirit.
“The troops must sustain the operational tempo until all bandits and criminal elements hibernating within the area are completely neutralised,” Jimoh said.
The Brigade Commander also appreciated the support of residents, urging members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
“Such cooperation remains critical to the success of ongoing operations against bandits and other criminals,” he added
